Member News

Jed Rakoff on ‘Science and the Gavel’

July 08, 2019

Jed S. Rakoff of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York was recently a guest on Common Law, a UVA Law podcast hosted by Risa L. Goluboff and Leslie Carolyn Kendrick.

In the episode, entitled “Science and the Gavel,” Judge Rakoff explains many of the challenges and the growing opportunities for the use of science in the courtroom, and its particular effect on judges.

Judge Rakoff, who oversaw In Re Ephedra Products Liability Litigation in 2005 talks about the learning curve for judges, their frequent reluctance to decide a case based on science, and his initial experience reviewing a complex scientific debate.

Read more and listen to the full episode here.

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Kneedler Retires After 160 SCOTUS Arguments

After presenting his 160th—and final—argument before the U.S. Supreme Court, ALI member Edwin S. Kneedler, the longest-serving deputy solicitor general in modern history, received a rare and emotional tribute: a standing ovation from the justices and audience alike. Known for his unmatched legal acumen, nonpartisan integrity, and commitment to the rule of law, Kneedler spent more than four decades representing the United States before the Court. His retirement marks the end of an era, and his legacy stands in sharp contrast to growing concerns about politicization in government legal work. Described by colleagues across administrations as a "national treasure" and the "embodiment of the government lawyer ideal," Kneedler leaves behind a legacy of quiet excellence, humility, and unwavering public service.

Read the coverage in The New York Times (subscription required).

ABA Spotlights John Bruce Lewis

The American Bar Association interviewed John Bruce Lewis as part of its "Voice of Experience" series. Read the full spotlight on the ABA's website.

Justice Goodwin Liu to Deliver 2025 USD School of Law Commencement Address

ALI Council member and California Supreme Court Justice Goodwin Liu will address University of San Diego (USD) School of Law graduates at the 68th commencement on Saturday, May 17.